The cricketing world turned its focus to Lahore on May 28, 2025, as Pakistan vs Bangladesh kicked off their much-anticipated three-match T20I series at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium. This bilateral series holds immense importance for both nations, with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup looming on the horizon.
However, all eyes were on Hasan Ali, the Pakistani fast bowler making a comeback to the national team after nearly three years. The match wasn’t just about runs and wickets—it was about redemption, momentum, and strategic experimentation.
Pakistan vs Bangladesh: A Fierce T20 Rivalry Marked by Emerging Stars and Comebacks
A Battle Beyond the Numbers
When we talk about Pakistan vs Bangladesh, it’s more than a typical bilateral series. It’s a clash of emerging cricketing ideologies. Pakistan is known for its fiery pace attack and unpredictable flair, while Bangladesh brings gritty determination and rising young talent.
This series, especially the first T20I, is crucial for both teams to finalize their core squads ahead of global tournaments. With senior stars like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi absent, Pakistan’s selectors handed opportunities to rising players—and to those seeking redemption, like Hasan Ali.
Hasan Ali’s Return: A Redemption Arc in Motion
Hasan Ali’s return has been the biggest talking point of this series. After being out of favor due to injuries and inconsistent form, the pacer roared back into contention through stellar performances in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Representing Karachi Kings, he grabbed 15 wickets in the 2025 season, often delivering crucial breakthroughs.
Hassan Ali is back with a bang 🤯
– 2 Wickets for 11 runs #PAKvBANpic.twitter.com/ItmvJHDFW1
— Waheed Malik (@WaheedMalik93) May 28, 2025
Source: Waheed Malik
His last T20I appearance came in 2024 against Ireland. Although that match didn’t go in his favor, the selectors were impressed by his resilience and fitness. Now, in front of a passionate home crowd in Lahore, Hasan was back—charged, focused, and determined to prove he still belongs at the top level.
Match Venue and Pitch Conditions
Gaddafi Stadium, known for its electric atmosphere and batting-friendly pitch, offered ideal conditions for a fast-paced T20 contest. While pacers like Hasan Ali found early movement under lights, the surface became easier to bat on as the game progressed. Spin also played a minor role, especially in the middle overs.
The weather was warm and dry, perfect for an uninterrupted match. This created a great environment for cricket fans who filled the stadium and millions who tuned in worldwide via streaming and broadcast.
Read Also: Mustafizur Rahman’s Unlucky Moment in PBKS vs DC IPL 2025 Clash:
Where and How to Watch
If you missed the live action, here’s how to stay updated:
- Pakistan: Live broadcast on A Sports, Ten Sports, and streaming on Tamasha and Tapmad
- Bangladesh: Covered by TSports and Tapmad
- UK & USA: Telecast via ARY and Willow TV, respectively
- Middle East & Sri Lanka: Streaming available via Cricbuzz and Dialog
- Note: Due to diplomatic reasons, the series isn’t available for broadcast in India.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan
- Hasan Ali: With 60+ T20I wickets, Hasan brings energy and experience. His ability to bowl in powerplay and death overs is crucial.
- Shadab Khan: Acting as vice-captain, Shadab’s all-round ability makes him vital in both spin and finishing roles.
- Salman Ali Agha: Leading in Babar’s absence, Salman has a chance to shine as a batsman and leader.
Bangladesh
- Litton Das: As captain, Litton shoulders the batting responsibility at the top. His strokeplay is both elegant and dangerous.
- Mustafizur Rahman: Known for his lethal cutters, Mustafizur is Bangladesh’s trump card in the death overs.
- Mahedi Hasan: A balanced all-rounder who offers stability and control in pressure situations.
Head-to-Head Record
Here’s a quick overview of their recent T20I encounters:
| Year | Winner | Margin | Venue |
| 2022 | Pakistan | 3 wickets | Mirpur |
| 2023 | Bangladesh | 7 runs | Lahore |
| 2024 | Pakistan | 2-1 (Series) | Neutral Venue |
While Pakistan has historically dominated, Bangladesh has closed the gap in recent years. The games are now tighter, with results often coming down to the final overs.
What Makes This Series Special?
- Testing Bench Strength: With senior players rested, both teams are exploring their next generation of talent.
- World Cup Prep: Experimentation now means fewer surprises in ICC tournaments later.
- Hasan Ali’s Comeback: Emotional and performance-driven, Hasan’s journey adds drama to the series.
Insights from the First T20I
In the first T20I, Hasan Ali bowled with fire and focus. Though wickets eluded him in his opening spell, he maintained discipline, economy, and pace. His body language was confident, his run-up crisp, and his variations sharp. While others took the limelight statistically, Hasan’s presence added balance to the bowling attack.
Pakistan’s young batters showed promise, with Saim Ayub and Azam Khan impressing. For Bangladesh, Towhid Hridoy was a standout performer with the bat, displaying composure under pressure.
Final Thoughts
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh series is more than a contest—it’s a story of resurgence, growth, and the ever-changing dynamics of T20 cricket. Hasan Ali’s comeback is not just a personal journey but a metaphor for Pakistan’s rebuilding phase.
If he continues to bowl with the same heart and hustle, Hasan might just script one of the most compelling redemption arcs in modern cricket.
Stay tuned as the series unfolds. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or a casual observer, this is the kind of cricket that reminds us why we love the game.
